Gaynor

"I have just ventured into being a foster carer recently after thinking about it for many years. Being single and having my son, I thought perhaps that I wouldn’t be approved. I now know this isn't the case and your relationship status and whether you currently have children living at home or not isn't a barrier to fostering. When I was made redundant, I started to look at what I really wanted to do with my life and career, and the thoughts of fostering came straight back to mind. My son is now 22 and at university, I spoke to him and he was very supportive, he thought that I would make a great foster carer. He was happy for me to use his room whilst he is away and I also have two other spare bedrooms that could be used full time for children."

"My first children have been a brother and sister group, one child has Downs Syndrome and some special learning needs. I felt a little nervous at first but I really shouldn’t have been. The children have filled my home with love and fun straight from the start. It took a couple of days to get used to one another, but very quickly we became comfortable with each other.

"I have a hobby of making jewellery from resin and so I started teaching the young girl, she loves it! We spend time at the dining room table getting very creative in the evenings after school and it feels like I have a little buddy to share my hobby with. The young boy is just a joy to spend time with, so loving and a fabulous character. His little face lights up the room and my heart fills with love.

"Don’t get me wrong, it takes a little adjustment to start looking after children again when you have been used to being on your own, but I have soon slotted straight back into being ‘mum’ and feeling needed again. When either of the children gives me a little smile and a giggle, I remember exactly why I wanted to start being a foster carer, because my heart just warms.

"Having children around makes you get out and do things that you thought you may never do again, like bowling, or the circus, or even clothes shopping is fun! I love watching their faces in a soft play centre or even just walking the dogs! Every moment with them is building positive memories for us all.

"As long as you have love in your heart and feel secure in yourself, you will make an amazing foster carer. They just need you to be there for them. I manage to work as a freelance marketer during the day so I get the best of both worlds. The fostering team have been a marvellous support and the whole process was smooth and thorough. They are very professional, and you know that they are there to support you every step of the way. You will also meet other foster carers and be supported with a mentor and lots of opportunities to attend support groups to meet for a coffee, or chat online. You are not alone in this fostering journey!"